Symptoms of Bacterial Blood Infection

Bacterial blood infection, medically referred to as septicemia, occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream. This condition is sometimes also called blood poisoning. The primary concern with bacterial blood infection lies in the harmful toxins released by bacteria into the bloodstream. Patients with this infection may exhibit several symptoms, including the following:

Chills.
Excessive sweating.
Reduced urination.
Fever, defined as a temperature exceeding 38 degrees Celsius or dropping below 37 degrees Celsius.
Increased heart rate, typically exceeding 90 beats per minute.
Confusion or altered mental state.
Rapid breathing, which may exceed 20 breaths per minute.

Causes of Bacterial Blood Infection

Most instances of bacterial blood infection arise from intense inflammation in one of the body’s organs. Some of the most common infections that can lead to septicemia include:

Pneumonia, particularly pneumonia-related infections.
Kidney infections.
Urinary tract infections.
Abdominal infections.

Risk Factors for Bacterial Blood Infection

Several factors can elevate the risk of developing a bacterial blood infection, including:

Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those suffering from leukemia, HIV/AIDS patients, and individuals undergoing chemotherapy or steroid injections.
Patients receiving mechanical ventilation.
Individuals with severe wounds or burns.
Patients undergoing surgical procedures in hospitals.
Older adults and young children.

Diagnosis of Bacterial Blood Infection

Bacterial blood infection is classified among the life-threatening conditions. According to global recommendations, immediate resuscitation of the affected individual and the administration of antibiotics should commence prior to conclusive diagnosis and laboratory results. Key objectives of diagnostic tests for suspected bacterial blood infection include detecting the specific bacteria causing the infection and assessing the extent of the inflammation within the organs. This typically involves imaging procedures and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. Below are some of the primary types of bacteria that are commonly tested for:

Enterococcus.
Streptococcus.
Staphylococcus aureus.
Escherichia coli.
Klebsiella.